Andrew Yang for President?

When pundits gather around the cameras to speculate about the potential Democrat standard bearers for the 2028 presidential election, we hear a lot about former Vice President Kamala Harris, California Governor Gavin Newsom and Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker.  Not much about others – and nothing about businessman Andrew Yang.  And yet, he could be the Democrats best bet.

You may recall him in his 2020 presidential race.  He was he guy with a lot of interesting ideas.  Unfortunately, the candidates with the loudest and most angry voices dominated the Democrat field.  Former Vice President Joe Biden won the nomination and the presidency In 2020. 

In 2024, Democrats foisted on the American voters a candidate who was not fit to even complete the campaign – much less a second term in office.  So, they replaced President Biden with a candidate who could not beat Trump —  as they did in 2016.  And they might again nominate a candidate who cannot beat the Republican opponent in 2028 – no matter who it may be.

The voting public appears to be yearning for a candidate they can actually like and admire. Someone who would rather lead than engage in endless fights – and has the correct policies.  Democrats have such a candidate in Yang.  Currently, he is left standing on the sidelines by a Democrat establishment that currently believes that the politics of personal demonization is the best strategy. 

A Tech-Savvy Candidate for a Tech-Driven Era

Yang’s unique blend of technological foresight, problem-solving pragmatism, and unifying rhetoric makes him a compelling potential Democratic nominee for 2028. In past campaigns, he introduced fresh ideas.  His consistent warnings about Artificial Intelligence and automation have proven prescient, positioning him as a candidate who understands the greatest challenges of the coming decade.

Yang’s strongest asset is his deep understanding of technology. Long before AI became a mainstream political issue, Yang warned that automation and artificial intelligence would reshape the labor market, potentially displacing millions of workers. His predictions have been validated as industries—from manufacturing to white-collar professions—face disruption from AI and robotics. Unlike many politicians who treat technology as an afterthought, Yang has consistently placed it at the center of his platform.

In 2020, Yang’s campaign was dubbed the “AI-first presidential campaign” because he directly addressed automation’s economic consequences. He argued that the U.S. was unprepared for the sweeping changes AI would bring, and he proposed forward-looking solutions rather than reactive measures. This foresight is exactly what the Democratic Party – and the country — needs in 2028, when AI will be having an greater negative impacts on jobs and everyday life.

Fresh Ideas That Resonate

Yang’s proposals have always stood out for their originality and practicality. Among his most notable:

• Universal Basic Income (UBI): His “Freedom Dividend” offered every American adult $1,000 per month, designed to cushion the economic blow of automation. While radical at the time, the idea has gained traction as policymakers grapple with AI-driven job losses. (More on this subject in a future commentary).
• Data as a Property Right: Yang argued that individuals should own their personal data and be compensated when companies profit from it. In an era of social media manipulation and privacy concerns, this proposal feels increasingly urgent.
• Combatting Phone Addiction: His recent venture, Noble Mobile, incentivizes users to spend less time on their devices. This reflects his broader concern about the mental health and societal impacts of technology.
• Democracy Reform: Through his Forward Party, Yang has championed ranked-choice voting and open primaries, aiming to reduce polarization and empower independent voices. (Personally, I am not enamored with these proposals).

Yang’s proactive problem-solving approach is refreshing. He does not simply critique existing systems.  He offers tangible, innovative solutions.

A Different Kind of Political Style

Yang’s presidential campaign was notable for its lack of personal attacks, disinformation and propaganda narratives. In an era when politics is often defined by negativity and division, Yang stood out by focusing on issues rather than personalities. His style is pragmatic, rooted in data and analysis rather than ideology. This makes him appealing to independents and moderates who are weary of strident partisan warfare.

Moreover, Yang’s emphasis on unity is central to his appeal. He has consistently spoken about bridging divides, whether political, cultural, or generational. His Forward Party initiative reflects this ethos, seeking to reform the system itself rather than simply winning within it. In 2028, when polarization may be even more severe, Yang’s message of inclusion could resonate widely.

Why He Could Be the Right Candidate for 2028

The Democratic Party faces a crossroads. By 2028, the electorate will be younger, more diverse, and more digitally attuned. He has demonstrated a special appeal for younger voters.  Voters will demand leaders who understand the complexities of AI, social media, and global technological competition. Yang is uniquely positioned to meet that demand.  Yang’s candidacy would signal that Democrats are serious about preparing for the future rather than clinging to outdated political battles.

Andrew Yang may not fit the traditional mold of a Democratic nominee, but that is precisely his strength. He represents a forward-looking, tech-savvy, solutions-oriented vision that could unite Americans around common challenges rather than divide them along partisan lines. His proposals—universal basic income, data ownership, democracy reform, and tackling tech addiction—speak directly to the issues of the 21st century.

In 2028, as AI, robotics, and social media continue to reshape society, Yang’s candidacy could be the bold, unifying choice the Democratic Party needs. He has already proven that he can see the future more clearly than most politicians. The question is whether Democrats will recognize that he may be the right person for the times.  Personally, I doubt it.

So, there ‘tis.